Factory No.1 Yixing Teapot #68 90's Nian Gao Flat Belly Teapot 170ml

Flat-Belly Yixing Teapot by Zhou Liumei | Factory One | c. 1990s | 170ml This teapot was crafted in the 1990s by Zhou Liumei (周六妹), a respected Factory One artisan well known among collectors for her exceptionally clean workmanship and balanced forms. Her teapots are often appreciated for their precise proportions, smooth finishing, and reliable daily usability. The clay is a reddish-toned variation of Nian Gao Ni (年糕土), sometimes referred to by collectors as “rice-cake clay” for its dense yet soft texture. Compared to standard purple clay, this material has a finer structure and a warmer tone, combining good heat retention with moderate breathability. Over time, the surface develops a deep, gentle sheen through regular seasoning and use. The form is a classic flat-belly style teapot, with a broad, low-profile body that allows tea leaves to expand comfortably during brewing. With its larger 170ml capacity, this piece works beautifully for sharing tea between several guests while still maintaining the intimacy and control of traditional Gongfu brewing. While many Factory One teapots from the 1990s became increasingly standardized due to large-scale production, Zhou Liumei’s craftsmanship remained notably refined. Together with the beautiful reddish Nian Gao clay used in this piece, it makes for a highly enjoyable and collectible Factory One teapot with excellent value for its era.